Abstract

This study analyzed the effectiveness of visiting reading programs for vulnerable children, focusing on the case of libraries in A-si, Gyeonggi-do. Library A utilized a visiting teacher to deliver books that matched the children’s levels and interests through non-face-to-face interactions, or to engage in face-to-face reading sessions and deliver books together. In 2022, a total of 158 individuals from 103 families participated in the program, with 103 individuals from 67 families delivering books and 55 individuals from 36 families engaging in book reading activities. Pre- and post-project surveys were conducted to assess the reading effects, and interviews were conducted with the visiting teachers. The analysis revealed that the level and interest of the children during book delivery and reading sessions were identified, and the effects of reading books with high levels of interaction were significant. Infants who were able to easily acquire reading experiences according to their age exhibited better reading effects compared to elementary school students. The program aimed at the new participant group showed slightly greater effectiveness than the group of continuing participants. Furthermore, following the implementation of the program, improvements were observed in reading interest, reading attitude, reading environment, reading interaction, self-esteem, social skills, language ability, reading proficiency, self-directed learning ability, and library utilization rate.